Ryan Anthony Owen Cardano

Ryan Anthony Owen Cardano, 33, of Winter Garden, Florida, graduate of Jenks High School of Tulsa, Oklahoma passed away on February 12, 2026, following an incident while riding his motorcycle. He leaves behind his loving parents, Mark and Cheryl Cardano, his sister Kristen Kirksey, and his brother Austin Cardano, all of whom will forever cherish his memory.

Ryan was an old-fashioned soul with a free spirit and a heart that radiated warmth. Confident, optimistic, altruistic, and deeply endearing, at every age he connected with people of all ages with remarkable ease and sincerity. Whether meeting someone for the first time or spending time with those closest to him, Ryan had a natural ability to make others feel seen, valued, and understood. He was truly liked by everyone he encountered.

He lived with a rare blend of kindness and selflessness, often putting others before himself without hesitation. Fiercely loyal and protective, Ryan was a steadfast friend, a devoted brother, and a source of unwavering support to those he loved. He protected with strength and loved with a gentleness that made everyone around him feel safe. Exceptionally capable and endlessly curious, he was the ultimate "fix-it" and do-it-yourself person-equally skilled with technology, mechanics, and anything he set his mind to.

Ryan adored his pets, cherished his cars and motorcycles, and embraced life with the enthusiasm his brother lovingly described as that of a "free-spirited golden retriever." He was excited about the future he was building with his beloved Mia Healy, including plans for an engagement and the joy of becoming an uncle to the expected Lillie Ryann Kirksey. He loved gaming, traveling, and spending time with family, and he excelled professionally as a top-performing IT Specialist and Sales Representative. He earned his bachelor's degree from Keiser University.

His gamer tag reflected a meaningful part of who he was, inspired by Genesis 1:3: "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." This verse symbolizes creation, truth, knowledge, and the triumph of light over darkness-values Ryan embodied in the way he lived and cared for others.

Ryan's last act of kindness on our Heavenly Father's green earth was the gift of organ donation, and we were humbled to learn that his selflessness saved three precious lives. Ryan's final resting place will be outside Orlando at Woodlawn Cemetery's Arbor Estates in Gotha, Florida, where he will join other family members.

In honor of Ryan's memory, donations may be made to either of his primary causes:

· ASPCA – Supporting the prevention of cruelty to animals (https://www.ASPCA.org)

· Tunnel to Towers Foundation – Providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and catastrophically injured veterans and first responders (https://www.t2t.org)

Ryan will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, empathy, and compassion will continue to inspire others to live with the same care and light that he brought into the world.